Are emeralds suitable for everyday rings?

Emeralds generally are not the first choice for daily rings because they are naturally brittle, and they can chip or even crack if they get hit. Even though their hardness sits around 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, their natural internal features weaken the overall structure.

Most natural emeralds come with internal fractures or inclusions, often referred to as the jardin. Those traits reduce the stone’s structural stability, so it can break more easily if it bumps against a hard surface. If an emerald has to be worn every day, like in an engagement ring, then it usually needs a highly protective setting, for instance, a bezel or a halo-style setting. The wearer also has to remain careful, avoiding demanding activities while the ring is on.